Doc asked if they could use me as a success story for the program- feeling guilty for declining

I had a follow-up to check labs today, and was surprised when the doctor asked if they could feature me in an article and on the website for their program.  Yikes, did it make me feel guilty.  I really do want to be that person to help inspire somebody to change their life to the drastic degree mine did over the past year or so, but I absolutely do not want to get into this at work.  The chances of work not finding out if I help the program out I imagine is slim to none.  I think if I could change just one thing about this process it would be my hang-up about coming out to everybody, not just close friends and family.  

Why do you feel guilty?

If you had cancer would you feel guilty having Chemo? Or getting a cast on a broken leg?

I don't get why weight loss surgery has guilt or embarrassment associated with it.

We are blessed to have this tool. Why not share your success and help others past their fears. How is this different than having a bad tooth removed?

Actually,

I do have cancer and yes, that too causes a lot of guilt.  For other reasons like family members having to pick up the slack, the worry it causes, work colleagues covering duties when I am not healthy enough, etc.  I guess I am just hard wired that way.  The WLS is not an embarrassment- the work situation is only because of a discriminatory boss situation that I have going on.  And that is the difference- having to deal with the bosshole.  

Ok, bosshole REALLY cracked me up.  I'm giggling like an idiot here. :D

dont you think it would be amazing if you could help one person to better their life like you have... screw everone at work they will either be happy for you or jealous maybe it could help someone at work take the leep go for it Girl...

Ya know... it's all about you and your decision and you have to feel comfortable with it. That's the bottom line.

The rest is just rambling, you can ignore it if you've made a hard decision.

Like my hubby you're a teacher so I get it. LOL, gossip. But you know? Everyone knows I had surgery, they see me a few times per year and from what I can tell, they've never said a bad thing. Mostly, they'll stop him and ask him how I'm doing and how much I've lost now, etc etc.

But you know what? I'm 37-years-old. If anyone were to say anything negative, that's on them. I chose to go public with my surgery because it's been an amazing journey for me and has changed and saved my life in so many ways. I'm grateful for those that went before me and chose to be open about it. It's hard sometimes and it can be annoying when people are asking you all the time, but you know... even if one person is helped because of me... it's worth it.

I understand...do not feel guilty!  This is your journey and you get to decide how it goes!

I agree, it is my journey and I have to do what is best for me.  For now, this is what is best.  If I can ever get the cancer in check so that stops being held over my head at work, then maybe this is a bridge I will be able to cross.  But it still feels selfish.  

Cancer being held over your head!?! OH. MY. Honey I pray that your situation eases. May a better opportunity come your way that can put you into a better environment! Keep on keeping on. Hold your head high and do what makes you feel comfortable!!

Sounds like the people you work with are sick in the head. Holding cancer over your head?? Yeah, next time someone lets a nasty fart go, I'd let them remember it for a LONG time.

Hon, you are going through the MILL with emotions. VSG and cancer? I only WISH I could be as sound as you are at the moment. I pray that people will stay off of your back and you can get your body, mind, and spirit back to healthy.